Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Mushy Controls During Missed Approach, No Mechanical Failure Found (N2320T)

Stuttgart, AR, US

On December 27, 1984, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N2320T) was involved in an aviation accident near Stuttgart, AR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot executing an NDB approach to Runway 18 initiated a missed approach at 800 feet, reporting mushy controls and a drop in airspeed. Post-crash examination revealed no mechanical malfunction.

Accident Summary

A pilot attempted an NDB approach to Runway 18 but executed a missed approach when the runway was not visible at 800 feet. During the missed approach, the pilot pitched the aircraft to a climb attitude and added full throttle. While in a left turn, the aircraft felt 'strange and mushy.' The pilot rolled the wings level and noticed the airspeed dropped from 100 mph to 80 mph.

Investigation Findings

A post-crash examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of a mechanical malfunction or failure of the aircraft structure, flight controls, or engine.

Environmental Conditions

The temperature and dew point were 60°F and 59°F, respectively. According to icing probability charts, serious carburetor icing could occur at cruise or glide power settings.

Additional Information

The pilot stated that he never operated the carburetor heat control during the approach.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Dec 1984 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Stuttgart, AR?

A pilot executing an NDB approach to Runway 18 initiated a missed approach at 800 feet, reporting mushy controls and a drop in airspeed. Post-crash examination revealed no mechanical malfunction.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Dec 1984 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N2320T, at Stuttgart, AR.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41873. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.